Penza, 25 July 2012. PenzaNews. Penza athletes are fully prepared for XXX Summer Olympic Games in London beginning on July 27 and continuing up to August 12. This was stated by the Acting Chairman of the Committee of Physical Education, Sports and Tourism in the Penza region Artur Panteleev during a press conference held on Wednesday, July 25.

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He noted that the training conditions created for the athletes were good.

“Practice sessions were held; athletes had a chance to take part in international competitions. We have done everything possible, and we think that Penza athletes are going to be ok,” underlined Artur Panteleev.

In turn, the father of gymnast Dennis Ablyazin pointed out that his son had been dreaming of going to the Olympics, and he had worked very hard.

“We stay in contact on the phone. When I ask him about health and the general situation, he always says that everything is well. Of course, the important thing is that he performs with dignity,” said Mikhail Ablyazin.

At the press conference in the regional sport committee, the director of Sports School of Gymnastics Vladimir Andreev expressed hope for successful performance of the national team in artistic gymnastics, a member of which is Penza athlete Anastasia Bliznyuk.

“The competition between the rhythmic gymnasts will be held at the end of the Olympics, where each medal will be important to the Russian team because Russian athletes face the task of getting into the top three at the Olympics. We look forward to the performance of our gymnasts, besides they are in good shape now,” he stated.

Medalist of the Olympics in Athens, Alexey Voevodin highlighted the commitment of Penza athletes.

“The guys know what they are going to London for. They are professionals; they see what atmosphere is created around it. I believe they will cope with all the negative moments. In my heart I am proud that they represent our region,” he said.

In the period from 1964 to 2008, there were 53 Penza athletes who participated in the Olympics, they won 14 gold, six silver and seven bronze medals. In 2012 there will be 10 athletes representing the Penza region at the competitions in London.